Gum disease can make you lose your teeth. How do you know if you have it?
Periodontal disease (gum disease) is a serious condition that not only destroys your smile, it can also impact your health. When your immune system is strained by infection and oral bacteria enters into your bloodstream, you’re in for trouble.
The more severe your gum disease is, the more difficult it is to manage health conditions like:
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Cardiovascular disease
- Erectile dysfunction
- …and more
So how do you know if you have the disease?
1) Your gums bleed.
If your gums are healthy, they won’t bleed. Even during flossing. Swollen, bleeding gums is a sign that there is an active infection in your mouth. A professional cleaning is a great way to jump-start your way into reversing and managing gingivitis or gum disease symptoms like bleeding.
2) You have bad breath.
Bad breath is often caused by active infection deep under the gums, in the pockets around your teeth. You might notice some gum recession, food packing, or visible tartar buildup as well. Flossing and brushing can’t keep deep pockets clean, so ask your dentist about what method is most appropriate.
3) Your teeth feel mobile or loose.
When teeth are loose, that means you’ve lost gum attachment and bone structure around your teeth. Both of these are indicative of periodontal disease. It’s time to see your dentist before you lose more teeth from the spreading loss of bone.
Gum disease is easier to reverse when it’s in its earliest stages. If you’re experiencing bad breath, buildup, or bleeding gums then it’s time to give us a call for preventive care that will help you get your oral health back in tip top shape.
